Plumbing Facts New Homeowners Need to Know

We all know how unpleasant it is to have toilet water flooding your bathroom floor like a Hawaiian hurricane, or to listen to the constant drip-drip-drip-drip of that vile little bathroom shower head. As a new homeowner, these things can really test your patience and throw you for a loop.

We get it! That’s why we’re here with these five plumbing facts that we’re confident will make moving into your new home a little less trying. Hopefully knowing these facts will ameliorate the stress you feel when you unpack that box and find your favorite family heirloom didn’t survive the times. (We’re sorry for your loss, but sometimes casualties during a move are inevitable.)

1. Plumbing Leak Detection

A plumbing leak isn’t just annoying, it’s also expensive. If you suspect you have a leak, check the leak indicator on your water meter. Your water meter is usually found either outside by your house or indoors under the kitchen. Causes of leaks are numerous, but a professional will be able to pinpoint the cause of this particular leak for you. Toilet leaks may be due to a number of issues, from flapper valve problems to flush handle issues.

2. Water Quality

Especially if you drink tap water or don’t have any kind of water filtration process, it’s important to have the quality of your water checked. Rusted or old pipes may lead to heavy metals in your water or the dreaded E. coli. (That’s right! It’s not just found in food, but contaminated water, too.) After a professional assessment of your water quality has been made, an expert will be able to tell you what next steps you should take to make sure your water is pure and safe for consumption. Better safe than sorry!

3. Water Softening

If you have hard water, chances are you’ve noticed that white, hard-to-clean grime that builds up on the outside of your faucet — we call this limescale or mineral buildup. Similarly, if rust rings, soap scum, and residue has been building up on your shower walls or other wet surfaces, you may need to see if your water softening machine is having problems — or if you don’t have on, install one!

4. Gas Leak Detection

For obvious reasons, knowing where your gas shut-off valves are located (as well as how to shut them off) is pretty important. While gas from your stove might have a detectable odor, carbon monoxide does not! It’s colorless, odorless, and most importantly, deadly in the event of prolonged exposure. That’s why this tip is twofold — first, make sure you have fully functioning carbon monoxide detectors, and then make sure you know how to shut off your home’s gas supply in the event of an emergency.

5. Pipe Inspections

If your pipe is visibly rusted and sagging, then we recommend replacing it before your whole floor is flooded. On the contrary, you may not be able to visibly see your pipes, but that doesn’t mean they don’t require inspection. We suggest calling in a pro to do a camera inspection throughout, to make sure your plumbing is in tip, top shape on move-in day, and beyond.

Mr. Rooter is there for you for all your plumbing needs.

We hope you found these tips helpful! Foresight when it comes to knowing when to replace things or call your plumber is invaluable, so if in doubt, always reach out! We’re available 24/7 and never charge extra for emergency services. After all, there’s a reason they call us Mr.!

As a Neighbourly Company, our services are always honest, affordable, and reliable. Contact us to schedule your personalized water analysis today!